Vessel
Inferior mesenteric vein
Hindgut venous channel with a variable portal-system junction
High-yield
Its termination may be in the splenic vein, superior mesenteric vein or their confluence. The vein therefore cannot be predicted solely by following the IMA.
Overview
The inferior mesenteric vein collects blood from the left colon and upper rectum. It ascends independently of much of the corresponding artery's course, usually reaching the splenic vein behind the pancreas.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Continues upward from the superior rectal venous system.
- Course
- Ascends on the left posterior abdominal wall near the duodenojejunal region, then approaches the pancreas and portal confluence.
- Branches
- Tributaries include superior rectal, sigmoid and left colic veins.
- Supplies
- Drains, rather than supplies, the left-colonic and upper-rectal territories.
- Drains to
- Usually the splenic vein; alternatively the superior mesenteric vein or their junction.
Clinical correlation
Rectal tributaries link portal and systemic venous territories. Variable upper termination also changes the appearance of the mesenteric veins on cross-sectional imaging.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the inferior mesenteric vein originate?
The inferior mesenteric vein arises from the continues upward from the superior rectal venous system.
What territory does the inferior mesenteric vein serve?
Drains, rather than supplies, the left-colonic and upper-rectal territories.
Where does the inferior mesenteric vein drain to?
Usually the splenic vein; alternatively the superior mesenteric vein or their junction.
What are the branches of the inferior mesenteric vein?
Branches of the inferior mesenteric vein include the tributaries include superior rectal, sigmoid and left colic veins.